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Lot 144:
Description
This natural history specimen consists of a substantial aerial nest created by a colony of bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata) also known as a type of yellowjacket wasp, accompanied by a preserved insect specimen found as the only remainder once the nest was vacated in the winter presumed to be the Queen. The nest is constructed from multiple layers of grey, papery material made from masticated wood fibers. The specimen has been partially opened, revealing the internal structural organization of several (4) horizontal tiers or hives containing hexagonal brood cells. The accompanying insect specimen exhibits the characteristic black and ivory-white markings of the species. A small printed label is included with the lot that identifies the insect as a queen which was the only biologic specimen found inside the hive this past winter however these same species were observed entering and exiting this nest when in season, physical characteristics and nest architecture are consistent with the bald-faced hornet, a member of the yellowjacket wasp family native to North America. Nest: 14 inches (length) x 12 inches (width)Insect: 1 inch (length).
Condition report:
The nest is in a natural, partially fragmented state. The outer envelope is detached in several areas, exposing the internal tiers. Several loose fragments of the outer paper envelope are included with the lot. The insect specimen appears intact.
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